Generic of Decadron is Launched to Treat COVID-19

Amneal has launched dexamethasone, 4 mg and 6 mg, a generic version of Decadron, an anti-inflammatory glucocorticoid steroid used to treat several medical conditions, including respiratory complications associated with COVID-19.

Dexamethasone is recommended by the NIH and the World Health Organization for treating COVID-19. In the RECOVERY trial, dexamethasone was shown to reduce mortality in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 who required supplemental oxygen. This study was published in the New England Journal of Medicine in February 2021.

But dexamethasone tablets can produce reversible hypothalamic-pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis suppression with the potential for glucocorticosteroid insufficiency. The HPA is complex system of neuroendocrine pathways that function to maintain physiological homeostasis. Changes in this system can potentially lead to a disruption in neuroendocrine, behavioral, autonomic, and metabolic function

Elevated blood pressure, sodium and water retention, and increased excretion of potassium, have also been reported.

Mild-to-severe infection with exacerbation may occur with the use of dexamethasone tablets alone or in combination with other immunosuppressive agents. Dexamethasone is contraindicated in patients hypersensitive to any components of this product.